Dr. Doyin Abiola Passes at 82: Nigeria Mourns a Media Trailblazer

Folio Media Group, publishers of Daily Times Newspapers, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Dr. Doyin Abiola, a pioneering journalist, former member of the Daily Times Editorial Board, and the first woman to become Editor-in-Chief of a daily newspaper in Nigeria.

Dr. Abiola passed away on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the age of 82.

In a heartfelt statement issued by Folio Media Group Chairman and Publisher, Dr. Fidelis Anosike, her death was described as shocking and deeply painful, especially at a time when Nigeria and its media sector needed her wisdom and voice the most.

“Dr. Doyin Abiola was a dedicated journalist, writer, supporter of social justice, and a strong advocate for women’s rights,” Anosike said.

“That she rose from Features Writer to Group Features Editor and Editorial Board Member during the 70s was rare for any journalist, let alone a woman. She later broke further ground as the first woman to lead a national daily.”

Dr. Abiola was married to Chief MKO Abiola, the widely acknowledged winner of Nigeria’s annulled 1993 presidential election. But her legacy stands firmly on her own groundbreaking achievements in media and public service.

Her journey began with a degree in English and Drama from the University of Ibadan in 1969. She launched her journalism career at the Daily Sketch, where she wrote a popular column, Tiro, focused on societal and gender issues.

She later joined Daily Times and went on to earn a PhD in Communications and Political Science from New York University in 1979. After returning to Nigeria, she rejoined Daily Times and contributed to the editorial board alongside legends like Stanley Macebuh, Dele Giwa, and Amma Ogan.

She eventually joined the National Concord and made history again in 1986 when she became Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief, the first Nigerian woman to hold that title in a daily newspaper.

Dr. Abiola’s influence extended far beyond journalism. She:

• Chaired the nomination panel for the Nigerian Media Merit Award

• Sat on the Advisory Council of the Ogun State University’s Faculty of Social and Management Sciences

• Won the prestigious Diamond Awards for Media Excellence (DAME) Lifetime Achievement Award

• Received the Eisenhower Fellowship in 1986

At the 24th DAME ceremony, she became only the second woman to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award after Omobola Onajide.

“Dr. Abiola lived a meaningful life, made significant contributions to Nigeria and humanity, and died at the good age of 82. We urge the Abiola family to take solace in that legacy,” Anosike added.